BREAKING: Major water alert issued to large area of Kilkenny

Uisce Éireann is urging customers in Castlecomer and surrounding areas in North Kilkenny to conserve water and protect supply.

Usage has increased considerably over the past number of days as freezing weather conditions continue. 

Uisce Éireann is asking people to do their bit to help maintain adequate supply. 

Operations Lead, Shane Aylward said, “We are appealing to customers to be mindful of their water usage and to conserve water where possible. We recommend that people don't run taps continually as this is not an effective way of preventing frozen pipes and can cause other problems such as frozen drains. It puts further pressure on the local water supply which is already challenged by the freezing conditions. Being mindful of water use at home, on farms and in businesses can make a big difference and alleviate the need for restrictions to supply.”

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Shane added that Uisce Éireann are also urging households, businesses and farmers to protect outside taps and to insulate exposed pipes and tanks which are particularly vulnerable to freezing.

"We are asking people to check for leaks and to turn off water to exterior pipes or unoccupied premises," he continued.

"Alternatively, people may consider setting the heating for these areas to come on periodically at a lower temperature. This allows warm air to circulate and will help to prevent pipes and tanks from freezing in the cold weather."

Customers can find useful water saving tips on our website www.water.ie/conserve. This also includes an easy-to-use conservation calculator so you can work out how much water you are currently saving and how to conserve even more.

Uisce Éireann is encouraging people to report any leaks or bursts on the public water networks to their Customer Care Team on 1800 278 278. They are available 24/7 and customers can also contact them on X @IWCare with any queries. 

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